2018 Topps Chrome Card Value Guide

Baseball

By Bob Villemure • Updated July 20, 2025

# 2018 Topps Chrome | Baseball Review & Card Values (Updated July 2025)

Set Overview

The 2018 Topps Chrome Baseball set remains a cornerstone for modern baseball card collectors, renowned for its sleek design and iconic rookie cards. Released during a transformative era for baseball, this set features top-tier rookies like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Shohei Ohtani, both of whom have made significant impacts on the game. The 2018 Topps Chrome is beloved for its chromium finish, vibrant refractors, and a wide array of parallels that have captivated collectors since its release. Historically, 2018 marked a period where collecting saw a resurgence in popularity, partly due to a strong influx of young talent in Major League Baseball. The set is cherished for its balance of aesthetic appeal and the promise of pulling one of the game’s future legends. Collectors today continue to revere the 2018 Topps Chrome not just for its standout rookies but also for its unique inserts, like the Freshman Flash and Future Stars, which add depth to the collecting experience.

Quick-Stats Panel

As of July 2025, the market for 2018 Topps Chrome cards is robust. Recent sales data from platforms like eBay, Goldin, and PWCC show strong demand across base cards, parallels, and autos. PSA 10 graded cards of key players like Acuña and Ohtani see average sales north of $2,000, while their refractor versions often double that figure. Grading trends indicate a preference for PSA over SGC, but both command respectable prices in high grades. Wax boxes, both hobby and retail, have become increasingly scarce, often fetching over $5,000 due to nostalgic demand and the chase for high-value parallels and autographs. Collectors continue to hunt for base cards as entry points, but the true allure lies in the colored parallels and low-numbered autos.

Price Table

Card	PSA 10	PSA 9	Raw
Ronald Acuña Jr. Base #193	$2,500	$1,200	$600
Shohei Ohtani Base #150	$2,200	$1,100	$500
Ronald Acuña Jr. Refractor #193	$5,000	$2,500	$1,200
Shohei Ohtani Refractor #150	$4,800	$2,400	$1,100
Gleyber Torres Gold Refractor #31 (auto)	$3,500	$1,750	$900

12-Month Set Trend Summary

In the last year, the market for the 2018 Topps Chrome set has experienced significant volatility. The past 12 months saw a spike in prices due to strong performances from Acuña and Ohtani, both of whom had standout seasons. The set also garnered attention from social media influencers who highlighted the long-term potential of these rookies. Significant sales, such as a PSA 10 Ohtani Refractor that fetched over $10,000 at auction, have solidified the set's status as a must-have for serious collectors.

Chase Cards to Know

Ronald Acuña Jr. Refractor #193:

A staple for any collection, offering high returns on investment for PSA 10 graded copies.

Shohei Ohtani Refractor #150:

Another key rookie card that is highly sought after, especially in gem mint condition.

Gleyber Torres Gold Refractor Auto:

Known for its scarcity and aesthetic appeal, this card is a chase for collectors aiming for rare autos.

Rafael Devers Blue Refractor #25:

Limited and visually stunning, this card is a highlight for collectors interested in color parallels.

Juan Soto Freshman Flash Insert:

While not as valuable, its unique design makes it a favorite among insert enthusiasts.

Population Report + Scarcity Analysis

PSA and SGC population reports illustrate the scarcity of top cards, particularly in higher grades. For example, there are fewer than 1,000 PSA 10 graded Acuña Jr. Refractors, making them highly coveted. The difficulty in achieving perfect grades due to centering issues and surface imperfections contributes to their scarcity. SGC reports suggest similar trends, with fewer than 500 gem mint grades for key cards, underscoring their long-term investment potential.

Breaker Appeal & Box Value

The allure of breaking 2018 Topps Chrome wax boxes remains strong. With box prices surging past $5,000, breakers are eager to capitalize on the hit odds of pulling significant refractors or autos. The hobby box configuration typically includes two autographs, offering a tantalizing ROI for those willing to gamble. The scarcity of sealed boxes enhances their value, and with consistent demand from breakers, the appeal shows no signs of waning.

Buy/Sell/Hold Outlook

For investors, the 2018 Topps Chrome set presents a compelling case for both buying and holding. Sealed boxes continue to appreciate, making them a solid hold for long-term gains. Key singles, especially PSA 10 graded rookie refractors, are recommended buys given their potential for further appreciation. However, patience may reward those waiting for a market dip to secure these cards at slightly lower prices.

Common User Questions and Answers

Engaging with the 2018 Topps Chrome Baseball set is not just about investing in cards; it's about capturing a piece of modern baseball history. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a novice, this set offers a wealth of opportunities to own a slice of baseball's brightest future stars.

🔥 Top 6 Auctions by Bids:

2018 Topps Chrome Shohei Ohtani RC Pitching #150 Angels PSA 10
$215.50 · 47 bids · 4 hours 36 minutes
RONALD ACUNA JR 2018 Topps Chrome Sapphire RC Rookie On Card Auto BGS 10/10
$2,150.00 · 46 bids · 2 hours 14 minutes
$RONALD ACUNA JR 2018 Topps Chrome Refractor RC Rookie Auto 259/499 PSA 10$
RONALD ACUNA JR 2018 Topps Chrome Refractor RC Rookie Auto 259/499 PSA 10
$1,405.00 · 37 bids · 1 hours 9 minutes
$2018 Topps Chrome Update Refractor #HMT1 Shohei Ohtani RC Rookie /250 PSA 10$
2018 Topps Chrome Update Refractor #HMT1 Shohei Ohtani RC Rookie /250 PSA 10
$3,100.00 · 37 bids · 8 days 1 hours 32 minutes
2018 Topps Chrome Update Shohei Ohtani RC Rookie #HMT32 Angels PSA 9
$44.00 · 30 bids · 3 days 0 hours 3 minutes
2018 Topps Chrome Sapphire Edition - Red: #700 Shohei Ohtani /10 PSA 8 NM-MT
$2,075.00 · 29 bids · 7 days 3 hours 8 minutes

FAQs

Is 2018 Topps Chrome | Baseball a good set to invest in long-term?

Yes, due to its historical importance and iconic rookies like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Shohei Ohtani.

What are the most valuable cards in the 2018 Topps Chrome | Baseball set?

Key cards include the Ronald Acuña Jr. Refractor, Shohei Ohtani Refractor, and Gleyber Torres Gold Refractor Auto.

Should I grade cards from this set?

Grading high-condition cards, especially of star rookies, can significantly increase their value.

How rare are unopened boxes of 2018 Topps Chrome | Baseball?

Unopened boxes are extremely rare and highly valuable due to their scarcity and demand.

Methodology & Ethics

Data sources — Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.

Sampling window — We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least three verified transactions exist for that grade.

AI-grading disclaimer — MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy, sell, or submit a card.

Affiliate transparency — When you click a link to an external marketplace we may earn a referral commission at no extra cost to you. These partnerships never influence a card’s ranking or our editorial commentary.

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